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South Korea to ban antibiotics in animal feed

South Korea in planning to impose a total ban on the mixing of antibiotics with animal feed effective from July, Yonhap news agency reported quoted the government as a source.

It is hoped that the move will heighten consumer trust in the satefy of livestock products.

“The government will impose a total ban on the addition of antibiotics to animal feed by revising rules governing animal feed production,” the farm industry said. “The new rules will enhance the safety of local meat and dairy products.”

Prior to 2005 South Korea had allowed 44 varieties of antibiotics to be mixed with feed, but gradually decreased the number when scientists warned of serious side effects of giving livestock too many antibiotics.

Under the revised rules the use of 8 varieties of antibiotics will be prohibited, along with one antimicrobial agent, the ministry said.

The ministry also stressed that once the law comes into effect violations will be dealt with sternly.

Veterinarians will still be permitted to inject antibiotics into sick animals.